Information on Testing

COVID-19 Testing

The Health Department encourages residents to continue to test for COVID-19 as needed. For full information on testing, visit the MDPH website. As a reminder, every home in the U.S. is eligible to order up to three rounds of free at-home tests. Order yours today at this link: https://www.covid.gov/tests 

 For more detailed information about the best way to use rapid at-home tests, including how to improve their accuracy by using repeated testing, see this link to FDA guidance. Visit the MDPH website for more information on testing.

 When to Test

  • If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild, isolate and take a test and stay home until you know the result. If the results are negative, retest 24-48 hours later.

 What kind of test can I use?

  • If you have symptoms of COVID-19: Rapid antigen or PCR (If you had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you should use a rapid antigen test rather than a PCR, since PCR tests can stay positive for months).
  • If you do not have symptoms but were exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19: Rapid antigen or, if you have not had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, PCR
  • To test in order to stop masking prior to day 10 following isolation: Rapid antigen

When to Test

  •  If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild, isolate and take a test and stay home until you know the result. If the results are negative, retest 24-48 hours later.
  • If the result is positive, follow isolation protocols.
  • If you are exposed and are asymptomatic, take a test on day 6 following an exposure to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. If you test negative, continue taking precautions through day 10. 
  • You can consider testing before spending time with someone who is at high risk for severe COVID-19 (due to older age or medical conditions) especially if you are in an area with medium or high COVID-19 Community Level. 

Where to Find Test

5/2/23-The Health Department has a limited supply of free tests inside the rear entrance to the Warren Building. Address: , 90 Main St, Wellesley.  Hours are M-F, 8:00am-4:00pm.  Closed 12/16 and 1/2. 

Rapid antigen tests are available at many stores and pharmacies. Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order up to three rounds of free at-home tests. Order yours today at this link: https://www.covid.gov/tests.

Find a PCR test site near you. 

Tested positive for COVID-19? Read this guide from the Health Department on isolation and quarantine. In most cases, if you're vaccinated and have no other health issues, in most instances COVID-19 illnesses can be managed at home. Contact your personal health care provider with specific concerns.